The European Union has been at the forefront of the international community’s re-engagement with Myanmar as it has advanced in making remarkable reforms and opened up to the world. The European Union is firmly committed to supporting Myanmar and its people on its path to democracy, peace and prosperity. The country’s successful democratisation and inclusive socio-economic development will further strengthen the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), the EU’s natural partner in South-East Asia.

The ban on opium cultivation by the government has led to acute food shortages for the ethnic groups in Wa Special Region No. 2 (Myanmar/ Burma). As a consequence of a forced relocation they have lost their traditional coping mechanisms and lack the necessary resources and agricultural land to secure their food and livelihoods.